Photo: WENN.com
Gary Barlow must be a dead-cert for a knighthood, after he received personal praise from Prince Charles last night at a music industry event in London.
The event, organised by The Music Industry Trusts was honouring Barlow for his contribution to the music industry. The MITS Award is in its 21st year and is given to musicians to recognise outstanding achievement in the music industry.
Speaking of Barlow's work as a member of Take That, a solo career and as X Factor judge, the Prince of Wales praised the star at the event.
"Over the past 25 years you have become one of the great stars of the British music industry and you are the very embodiment of that rare species, 'a national treasure'," said the prince.
Barlow spoke of his honour at being given the award, but maintained that chart and critical success was second to being able to help others with his work.
"I love this industry, it's been very kind to me, but the fact I can give something back is very important," Barlow told Sky News. "Music has given me my career but it has also given me so much more," he said. "It makes me feel good and changes people's lives and I love that."
Prince Charles meets Gary Barlow at the Royal Variety Performance in 2010
Barlow has been tipped for a knighthood in the Queen's New Year's Honours list, after his work on the Sing album earlier in 2012, recorded to mark the Queen's Jubliee celebrations.
As well as his role as 'national' treasure and potential knight of the realm, Barlow is also off on tour in November and Decebmer across the UK. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit Gigwise Gig Tickets.
Watch Gary Barlow's 'Sing' video below
Photos: Gary Barlow - a few photos he might want to forget
